Abstract ID: 231
Authors:
Haridah Alias
Pooi Fong Wong
Kit Mun Tan
Hutkemri Zulnaidi
Li Ping Wong
Affiliations:
Institute for Advanced Studies, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Centre for Population Health (CePH), Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Department of Mathematics and Science Education, Faculty of Education, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Fujian Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Cancer, Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China; Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
Abstract:Background There has been extensive recent effort to identify potential drug candidates targeting cellular senescence to treat ageing-related comorbidities. In Malaysia, where cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain a major public health concern, such interventions may be especially valuable. Despite the growing relevance of early vascular ageing (EVA) in clinical research, little is known about how Malaysians perceive this concept or their views on the acceptability of related preventative medications. Objectives This qualitative study aimed to explore Malaysian adults’ understanding of the concept of EVA, as well as their attitudes and acceptance of medication for EVA. Materials and methods Six online focus group discussions were conducted with 31 Malaysian adults (aged 18 50) of diverse backgrounds between January and May 2024. Transcripts were analyzed thematically to explore perceptions, concerns, and acceptance of EVA medication. Results The awareness about EVA was low although some participants had heard of known of premature death from sudden heart attacks among their friends or relatives. In general, older participants expressed higher perceived susceptibility of EVA than the younger. Participants expressed concern over safety profile, long-term side effect, and efficiency of the medication. The acceptance of medication for EVA was moderate among younger participants and high among older participants. Some conditions that increase their acceptance were the physicians’ recommendation, convenient administration route, and affordable pricing. Conclusions Findings provide insights the need to raise awareness about EVA, particularly among younger adults in Malaysia. Addressing concerns about medication safety and effectiveness, alongside clear guidance from healthcare providers, may enhance public acceptance. Interventions to reduce negative perceptions of new therapies and improve awareness about EVA may enhance acceptance of medication.
Keywords: Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), Senotherapy, Young Adults, Cardiovascular, Premature Ageing, FGD
